Ecuador captures 'Churrón', alleged leader of Los Choneros, in Guayaquil

Ecuadorian military forces have captured Francisco Manuel Bermúdez Cagua, alias ‘Churrón’, a key leader of the notorious criminal organization Los Choneros. The high-value target was apprehended during a military operation in the northern sector of Guayaquil, specifically in the La Alborada area, within a commercial establishment.

Bermúdez Cagua was a priority for both Ecuadorian and U.S. authorities. He was wanted by the justice system and held an active Interpol red notice. The U.S. Department of State had offered a substantial reward of $5 million for any information that could lead to his location, underscoring his significance as a criminal figure.

During the operation, military personnel also arrested Rafael André Delgado Martínez and Steven Dustin Poveda López, identified as members of ‘Churrón’s’ security detail. Authorities seized the vehicle used by the three detainees. The capture is considered a significant blow to the Los Choneros criminal structure.

Minister of Defense Gian Carlo Loffredo confirmed the arrest, stating that ‘Churrón’ is now in the hands of justice and will remain in the Cárcel del Encuentro pending extradition to the United States. The Ecuadorian Army reiterated its commitment to continuing military operations to dismantle organized armed groups and enhance national security.